I could barely contain my excitement about participating in the Eden Mills Writers’ Festival 2012. Some may vouch, in fact, that I did not contain my excitement, but rather it bubbled forth at every opportunity for self-expression. The festival goers were numerous and engaged. The weather was perfect. We, the authors, enjoyed delicious meals in beautiful settings in the scenic hamlet of Eden Mills. There was a wonderful literary vibe in the early autumn air.

Highlights included meeting and chatting with authors Helaine Becker, Lizann Flatt, Susan Hughes, Deb Loughead, and Donna Morrissey. I also was pleased as punch to shake hands with Alistair MacLeod and to extend gratitude to Leon Rooke, the festival’s founder and former resident of Eden Mills. It was lovely to reconnect with fellow Second Story author and illustrator Janet Wilson, illustrator Linda Hendry, and to meet Susan Glickman who is also a Second Story author (the Lunch Bunch series). And, of course, I loved seeing all the familiar faces in the village and getting caught up with friends.

I left with a huge grin on my face and lots of inspiration to write, write…

WRITE!

I had the pleasure of visiting Victoria in September. It was work-related, and that aspect of the trip was fantastic. When a colleague recommended a coastal walk and directed me to the trail, I knew how I was spending a couple hours before dinner. This photograph shows my toes—yes, my toes—in the Pacific Ocean. Don’t you just have to submerge at least part of your body in water while visiting a coastal town, especially when you live inland? Well, yeah, you better believe it!

There are some fabulous children’s book writers and illustrators on the west coast. I’m learning more and more about them through my work. Pretty much no matter where you live, you can take advantage of workshops and readings offered by local writers and illustrators. Teachers, take note! This is a fantastic learning opportunity for your students. Motivate your students to read, write, and explore genres outside their comfort zone. Contact authors/illustrators directly, or look at their webpages for rates and materials needed. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the creative talent in your community and your province or territory. You can find authors on the website for The Writers’ Union of Canada or CANSCAIP. CANSCAIP is an amazing organization for Canadian authors, illustrators, and performers.

If you are interested in learning more about creators and their works, click here to download the CANSCAIP brochure in Adobe Acrobat.

You can find "trade" books by Jill Bryant at your favourite local bookstore.
Just ask the bookseller to order them if they aren't on the shelf.
Alternatively, shop online at Chapters Indigo.ca or Amazon.ca.